Energy security starts with supply, and Ohio can help deliver

By Chris Zeigler 
Executive Director 
American Petroleum Institute Ohio

Energy security isn’t just an energy issue – it’s an economic and national security imperative.

Geopolitical conflicts, supply chain disruptions and rapidly growing electricity demand have reinforced a simple reality: America’s energy system must be reliable, resilient and capable of meeting rising demand during periods of uncertainty. That begins with abundant domestic energy supply supported by modern infrastructure and policies that encourage long-term investment.

Ohio is built to deliver

Ohio is a major natural gas and oil producer that sits at the crossroads of America’s energy economy.

The state ranks among the nation’s top ten natural gas producers, accounting for about 5% of U.S. natural gas production, and is the largest oil producer east of the Mississippi.

From the natural gas resources of eastern Ohio to the state’s world-class manufacturing base, pipelines, refineries and emerging advanced technologies, Ohio plays a critical role in producing, transporting and delivering the energy that powers millions of homes, businesses and industries across the Buckeye State and beyond.

As electricity demand has increased, natural gas has become an increasingly important part of Ohio’s power mix.

In 2024, natural gas-fired electricity generation was more than three times greater than it was a decade earlier.

Meeting America’s growing energy needs cannot happen overnight. It requires smart and predictable policy, efficient permitting processes and modern infrastructure to help attract and maintain long-term investment.

Access is key to energy abundance

Energy security starts with supply. Policymakers should maintain durable access to domestic resources, preserve reliable fuel supplies and ensure emergency reserves are built for today’s energy system.

In Ohio, several key policy decisions have helped expand access to Ohio’s energy resources.

Opening Ohio state lands to natural gas and oil leasing has generated more than $300 million for Ohio, providing funding for public services and park infrastructure, while supporting responsible energy development.

In June, Gov. Mike DeWine signed two pieces of legislation passed by the General Assembly strengthen Ohio’s energy foundation – Senate Bill 219 and House Bill 170. 

Senate Bill 219 not only modernizes the state’s oil and gas law but also provides greater clarity for operators and regulators, protects funding for well-plugging and helps ensure Ohio remains responsive to the growing demand for affordable, reliable energy.

House Bill 170 establishes a clear framework for carbon capture technology that can help spur investment, support good jobs and expand Ohio’s economy while reducing emissions.

Together, these policies demonstrate how stable, predictable rules can help bring new energy supplies online as demand and market conditions evolve.

Removing barriers to reliable supply

Ohio cannot fully leverage its energy abundance if permitting delays, transportation constraints, supply chain challenges or outdated rules prevent energy from reaching consumers.

As demand continues to grow, America can’t afford infrastructure bottlenecks that delay new production or limit access to reliable energy.

Congressional action on permitting reform remains the most immediate step to strengthen both affordability and energy security. It shouldn’t take years to get a permit for critical energy infrastructure.

A blueprint for success

Ohio has demonstrated what responsible energy policy and development can accomplish, building an energy powerhouse that powers the state’s economy and modern life. Recent policy actions have helped secure a stronger future for Ohio.

But additional progress is needed to prepare America for future disruptions.

The Western Hemisphere now produces 38% of the world’s oil and roughly one-third of its natural gas. Strengthening energy ties across the region can diversify supply, strengthen resilience and reduce dependence on vulnerable chokepoints.

The strongest energy systems are built with flexibility, redundancy and multiple paths to market. Resilience begins with abundant domestic supply, modern infrastructure and policies that encourage investment rather than delay it.

For Ohio and America, that’s a blueprint worth embracing.

Chris Zeigler is the executive director of the American Petroleum Institute Ohio based in Columbus.